Our most recent interview happens to be with a brand which we’ve been following for quite some time now (honestly, we’ve been in love with them ever since we started the Amanqi journey). Vibrant, playful & artistically driven, All Things Mochi was established with the intent to support craftsmanship & incredible talent all across the globe. Dedicating each new collection to an amazing culture (think the likes of India, Thailand & Uzbekistan), the label, established by Ayah Tabari, brings to the spotlight various artisanal practices with a more contemporary twist.
Their most recent collection, Resort 2017, imbibes the timeless energy & understated oomph factor of traditional Hungarian embroidery in easy-to-wear, versatile silhouettes (All the pieces are beautiful!). Drawn in by the flower-burst detailing & vivid colour palette, we decided to sit down with super talent Ayah, to discover her journey, what inspires her & how All Things Mochi became an ethical brand with a global fan-following.
The All Things Mochi Journey
Ayah: Mochi was born to support stitching communities worldwide and it all started about 5 years ago when I was on a trip to Goa with my girlfriends. I was walking through the streets one day and noticed some mirrored bags glistening in the street; I instantly fell in love, as I had never seen anything quite like it before. I bought one bag and then after decided I might be onto something, so ordered 200 to be shipped to my house in Dubai. When the bags finally arrived, I didn’t know what to do with them so I just put them in my Mum’s garage where they lay for 2 years. One afternoon, I decided to go down there and fish them out – seeing all the beautiful colors reminded me how much I had believed in the product so I decided to organize a sale for my family and friends. The bags sold out and confirmed I was onto something, then Mochi begun!
Photo: Courtesy of All Things Mochi
The Many Sources of Inspiration
Ayah: I work with artisans in the country which the collection is based on or inspired by to create the collection, I think unique aspects come from the communities and how they bring the pieces to life – they are a joy to work tithe. Even though I try to always be on trend with my designs the unique part of the brand is that every piece is unique to its owner – and that’s what makes it so special!
The Impact of Social Media
Ayah: Social media is a massive factor relating to the growth of Mochi, we begun as Instagram began and our content was fun and colorful, we developed a big audience through this tool and continue to make sure we keep our followers active and interested. The brand is also loved by many bloggers and celebrities worldwide and due to them posting great pictures and loving the brand also, we have been lucky enough to engage with their following too which has increased ours. Fans include; Chiara Ferragani, Rocky Barnes, Kourtney Kardashian, Gigi Hadid and many more…
Photo: Courtesy of All Things Mochi
The Career-Defining Moment
Ayah: There a few, the Prints by Mochi for Topshop collection was one of those moments where I pinched myself and thought this honestly can’t be happening. The whole experience was a whirl wind and to work with such an internationally renowned retailer was an amazing experience. Another was when Gigi Hadid and the Kardashian clan wore Mochi that was a bit of a wow moment.
Photo: Courtesy of All Things Mochi
A Usual Day in Ayah’s Life
Ayah: At the moment, I am really into yoga at sunrise but it changes month on month. I love exercising in the morning, it gets the endorphins going so this is how I start my day. I am usually in the office by 9 and leave when the work is done. A typical day at the office will consist of meetings, brainstorm sessions, sampling, planning campaigns, shipping out orders. I am super hands on so there is no normal day.
Ayah’s Fall ‘Must-Haves’ & Wardrobe Essentials
Ayah: I’ve dyed my hair a bit darker for fall; I am always a bit beachy and blonde during summer so I am really loving this change. A good pair of jeans and I have a new vinyl red trench are also on the top of my ‘to wear’ list this autumn.
Photo: Courtesy of All Things Mochi
Photo: Courtesy of All Things Mochi
Follow All Things Mochi: @allthingsmochi